June 22, 2010

There are so many good pubs and bars in or around London, it is hard to pinpoint any specific favourites.

One pub that we visit on a regular basis is “The Hatch”. Not in the centre of London but just a 40 minute drive out on the M25, you will reach this place with ample parking and no congestion zone.

The Hatch Family Restaurant and Public House

DIRECTIONS AND DETAILS : Situated on Greywell Road, just off London Road, Old Basing, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 7JL.

Tel: 01256 473077

e-mail hatch.2111@thespiritgroup.com

www.pub-explorer.com/hampshire /pub/hatcholdbasing

From the M3 coming from London, take the junction marked 6 for Basingstoke / Southampton. Just off the A30, follow the road round until you come to a large roundabout, from this point turn right into Old Basing. The Hatch is sign posted with a small square sign if you are approaching from Basingstoke town centre.

London Road is the main road off the motorway and leads you through to Old Basing. Keep going straight for about two miles and The Hatch is on the right hand side of the dual carriageway. There is a large VW dealership on the opposite side of the pub. Conkers garden centre is almost next door incase you over shoot the turning.

WHY GO THERE? The Hatch is a well-established public house and restaurant. With only five other Chef and Brewer chains in Hampshire, this is unlike other pubs in the area. The building dates back to 1857 and is steeped in history. Though owned by the Chef and Brewer group, it is managed extremely well by Ian & Lynette Williams, this restaurant is popular all year round.

The Hatch offers traditional pub meals in charming yet rural surroundings; with children welcome this is a friendly family diner.

THE DCOR: Unlike its close neighbour, The Portsmouth Arms, this restaurant is full of original features. The oak beams are genuine and the tiled floor is uneven and rickety through age.

Whatever time of year you dine there, with its brown and burgundy chintzy wallpaper, it is always dark inside but this adds to the relaxed and unhurried atmosphere.

Candles are used to light all tables and open fires spit and crackle in the colder winder months. In the summer the air conditioning blows through the vents in the ceiling so it has been slightly remodernised.

With its many nooks and crannies and cosy corners, offering privacy to those wanting a more relaxed meal, this establishment caters for all ages.